8B Consent 2014 0407 - Laserfiche WebLink

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department scheduled safety training that specifically addressed proper lifting techniques, ladder and stair safety, identifying hazards, and tips for prevention. The Human Resources department also plans to begin incorporating recognition into our City's safety program. Safety recognition can help increase and promote safety awareness among employees thereby helping to control worker's compensation claims. For example, the City went 30 days without an incident or accident between the dates of December 5, 2013 and January 15, 2014. This seemingly small milestone was recognized in a thank you card to departments acknowledging their efforts to keep our work place safe. Quality of Medical care The City also ensures that injured employees are receiving quality care from the medical clinics designated for work-related injuries and illnesses. Employees have the choice of going to Concentra and Kaiser -on -the -Job for medical treatment, which are the contracted clinics for work-related injuries, or employees may pre -designate a personal physician. In 2013, Human Resources staff met with Concentra staff and physicians on two occasions. The City discussed the level of services expected, which included a reasonable wait time for treatment, timely diagnosis of an employee's condition, and prompt communication on an employee's work status. Human Resources staff continues to monitor the satisfaction of employees in using the contracted clinics, and will be scheduling follow up meetings with both Concentra and Kaiser in the near future. FUTURE PROGRAM GOALS Despite the challenge of unpredictable increases in salary continuation and medical costs, the Workers' Compensation program is demonstrating an overall trend of decreased expenses and improved communication and services over the last two fiscal years. Implementing the initiatives outlined above has improved the program and decreased costs, but there is still opportunity for continued improvement. For FY 2014, staff established the following program goals: • Reduce total expenses. • Reduce the number of new claims through prevention and training strategies. • Reduce total claims inventory through timely settlement and closure of existing claims. • Reduce lost time through the effective use of Return to Work Program strategies. • Have at least two HR staff trained to be certified to perform ergonomic evaluations. Decreasing incurred costs, number of claims, and lost time reflect safer practices, decreased severity of injury, and strategic case management. The Human Resources Department will continue to assess, recommend, and implement program enhancements within existing budget authority. As such, any associated operating expenses will not impact the General Fund.